Knitting for Baby: 30 Heirloom Projects with Complete How-to-Knit Instructions Paperback – February 1, 2008

I have had this book for almost two years now. It was the first pattern book I bought when I was learning to knit. I adore this book.For knitting for two years, I haven't knit many projects from this book but that's because I haven't knit many projects period. But I have knit the beginner booties several times, and the garter stitch hat, and that gorgeous eyelet blanket that I personalized with some bright delicious stripes. Funny enough my first attempt was the patchwork blanket pattern which I don't recommend as your first pattern because of how even things need to be to get it right. But here's the thing about this book, it just makes you want to TRY.I've never knit socks, but this book made me want to try booties and I did and it was a success. Knitting the easy garter stitch hat in this book got me through an anxious 24 hours with my newborn in the hospital while I had to stay home. And when I finally decided I needed to just try a sweater, I picked up this book yet again and am currently working on the Sweetheart Pullover which has been a delight.I think of this book as welcoming. It was a great welcome to knitting book and recently it has become a perfect welcome BACK to knitting book. The patterns are relaxed and the photos are fantastic. I've never used the exact yarns in any of these patterns and it has never ever mattered at all. Everything I've done from this book has been wonderful.If you're new to knitting, or you're coming back to knitting, or you've been knitting and want some good quality pieces for a special baby in your life, definitely pick up this book.I definitely hope Melanie Falick and Kristin Nicholas team up over and over again.One neutral point: The title states "with Complete How-to-Knit-Instructions". I don't agree with this. Although it does include lots of instructions and techniques, I for one know I wouldn't have been able to teach myself to knit from this book. I was able to really teach myself how to knit mostly with Stitch n Bitch. I also occasionally used the internet. But this book did help me with refreshers in some things and did help give different perspective on techniques like increasing and decreasing or offered other methods of how to do things. In other words, I think if you are learning to knit, this should not be your one and only purchase or resource. I would at the very least combine it with a good instructional guide like Stitch n Bitch and then let the yarn fly.I have read some of the negative reviews on here and have the following reactions. The word "heirloom" doesn't automatically translate into something complicated. It just means something treasured so much, it is passed on. And a novice can most definitely create something treasured. The thing about these patterns is they are solid. And a treasured, solid item, can definitely be handed down again and again, creating an heirloom.Other negatives I read on the reviews are how basic the designs are. Again, this should be a plus. If you are truly of an intermediate or advanced level, I think you would this book inspiring as a building block of sorts. For instance, the eyelet blanket is such a good solid pattern, it is easily adaptable. I personally jazzed it up with bold stripes and it has a completely different feel to it. I also disagree with statements about colors used in the book being dull. There is a pretty good balance here. While some things are done in neutrals (which, by the way, are extremely helpful in creating timeless heirlooms since they are never out of taste), they do splash colors in there to get the mind whirring.If you are looking to simply reproduce exactly as shown knit pieces and prefer the more complicated and intricate variety, I could see this book not appealing to you. But if you just want to turn out good solid projects and have enough confidence in your own creativity to build on the patterns, I think you'll find this as much a joy as I have.Enjoy!

I first checked this book out from the library and loved so many of the patterns, I bought it online. I am a beginner knitter, and I just finished my first "Baby's First Ball" on page 55. I must say, It was quick and fun once I got the hang of it. I thought it was a very good first project for someone who couldn't remember how to knit & purl, with a little ambition. I did not have a lot of luck with their knitting technique illustrations, so I had to watch a couple videos online and my Mother-in-law helped too. The next time I knit the ball, I'm not going to felt it, and use a soft yarn instead. Another cool thing, is that you can use scraps too. I am going to try knitting a washcloth next. That was why I originally checked out the book (saw it on a craft show). I am tempted to give this book four stars becuause of the basic knitting instructions, but if you are reading this, it means you are also capable of visiting one of the many knitting websites with far better instructions and videos anyway. I would certainly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for cute, classic baby patterns. Have fun!

This book is just OK. Unfortunately, many of the patterns require very small needles, which means that these are not quick to knit. The patterns also are very traditional. If you want easy, fast, or hip, then this book is not for you. If you like delicate traditional patterns, you will love it. Not for beginners.

I am left handed and took up knitting at age 45. Although this is not a book geared to left handed knitters I found the many illustrations helpful. (I have learned that knitting takes two hands so it's just as easy to adapt to right handed knitting.) This book is great for learning new skills. It starts with a basic project, then leads from skill to skill with new projects. Begin by learning several different stitch patterns using knit and purl stitches in small 2" square samples, then sew them into soft blocks for Baby. One can learn to increase stitches by making a simple baby washcloth, or how to do short rows by making a felted ball for Baby. There are a few patterns for baby sweaters and a pattern to knit seamless mittens connected together with an I-cord. There are also a couple of patterns for baby hats, blankets, knit bears, and a sweater for Mom. Included in the instructions for a project is a page reference back to the section where the skill was taught. I bought the book to make the sweater on the cover but have also made the "Stay-on Booties" and baby washcloths (dozens of them). I like to give the book as a gift to someone who wants to learn to knit.

I don't need any more books on knitting. Really. I prefer to hit the library to browse. After checking this out, reading through it and having it around the house for 3 weeks, I was reluctant to give it back. The patterns start simply and work their way up in complexity. They're not kitchy, the colors are soothing, and the patterns are timeless. A very solid book. The only reason I'm not giving it 5 stars is that if you are an experienced knitter you can probably find or make most of the patterns. But for a beginner/intermediate, this is a fantastic way to branch out. Written explanations are also excellent!